There's a reason American toymaker Morris Michtom used real bear cubs as the inspiration for his soft stuffed "Teddy Bear" (named for then-President Theodore Roosevelt). It's likely the same reason the toy became wildly popular with the public: before they grow into dangerous and majestic apex predators, bears are ridiculously cute.

As proof, we've assembled a squeal-inducing collection of the best bear cub photos captured* by members of our Photo Club.

*By long-range telephoto lens. We'd be remiss if we didn't take this opportunity to remind you that you should never approach a bear cub, even if it appears to be unattended. You might not be able to see her, but mama is close by. Check out these other bear safety tips. Now, enjoy the cuteness:

A grizzly cub appears to razz the camera while roughhousing with its mother in Comox, B.C. (Photo: Derek Kyostia/Can Geo Photo Club)

Cuddle time. (Photo: Horst Baender/Can Geo Photo Club)

Waiting for mom. (Photo: Erika Squires/Can Geo Photo Club)

Lost in thought. (Photo: Shannon Curtis/Can Geo Photo Club)

Sweet springtime cub. (Photo: Nick Trehearne/Can Geo Photo Club)

A mother's pride. (Photo: Andrea Halwas/Can Geo Photo Club)

Joy! (Photo: Greg Harvey/Can Geo Photo Club)

Do you ever get the feeling you're being watched? (Photo: Megan Lorenz/Can Geo Photo Club)